Solar Energy Research Arrives in Arizona

A precursor to ASU Architecture's focus on energy research, the Association for Applied Solar Energy (AFASE) is established in Phoenix. AFASE organizes the 1955 World Symposium on Applied Solar Energy in Phoenix, drawing international attention to the energy potential of Arizona's sunshine, hires John Yellott, a renowned scientist/engineer, as the first AFASE executive secretary, and holds the worldwide Living in the Sun competition for the design and construction of a solar house in Scottsdale. Briefly housed at ASU in the 60’s, AFASE evolves into the organization now known as ISES (International Solar Energy Society).

Design and the Arts Special Collection